SBI Holdings denies report of $100m crypto unit B2C2 stake sale

SBI Holdings has refuted claims that it intends to sell a $100 million stake in its cryptocurrency trading subsidiary, B2C2.

A report published by Bloomberg on April 8 claimed that SBI Financial Services, a unit of Japan’s SBI Holdings, was exploring a potential $100 million sale of a minority stake in its crypto market-making subsidiary B2C2. 

Citing anonymous sources familiar with the discussions, the article noted that SBI was in talks with several prospective buyers. 

However, according to Bloomberg, an SBI spokesperson denied the report, stating the company is not considering a sale. B2C2 also declined to comment on the matter. 

SBI Holdings initially acquired a minority stake in B2C2 in July 2020, investing $30 million to establish a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing its cryptocurrency services for millions of customers. 

Digital asset acquisition 

By December 2020, SBI had fully acquired B2C2, positioning itself as the first major financial group to operate a digital asset dealing desk. 

Since the acquisition, B2C2 has expanded its presence in the cryptocurrency market. In August 2023, the firm acquired French market-making company Woorton, gaining regulatory licenses to operate within the European Union. 

This move was part of B2C2’s broader strategy to enhance its services and provide liquidity to institutional clients across Europe.​

SBI Holdings has been a significant player in the digital asset space, engaging in various initiatives to integrate cryptocurrencies into traditional financial services. 

The company has collaborated with blockchain firms and invested in multiple crypto-related projects, underscoring its commitment to the evolving digital economy.​